By Paul Jones
Joe Hawkins has explained why he chose to end his Wales career so soon after it had begun.
The 20-year-old Ospreys centre – one of the discoveries of a disappointing 12 months for Wales – has agreed to join Exeter this summer.
It means he will no longer be eligible for Wales unless the Welsh Rugby Union tear up their policy of only selecting players outside of Wales who have won at least 25 caps.
Great cohort of local lads won the European cup but turns out Devonians aren’t good enough for Exeter anymore. Next side being built on Welsh boyos. Welcome Joe Hawkins but it’s sad that Exeter have abandoned the Devon Cornwall Dorset and Somerset talent pool.
— Jymbeau (@James85003327) April 3, 2023
Hawkins – who has won just five – could still make the World Cup in September, depending upon when his new Exeter contract begins.
But his decision – which was quickly followed by news that Ospreys back row forward Ethan Roots is also joining Exeter – means Hawkins will not available once he moves onto the Chiefs’ payroll.
After yesterday’s game, this is a real kick in the teeth for the Ospreys, first Joe Hawkins and now Ethan Roots.
The very best of luck to him in Exeter, a fine addition to the Premiership. https://t.co/NuM2gTgybQ
— Iestyn Rhys Thomas (@Iestyn_thomas21) April 3, 2023
The Ospreys were eager to hang on to his services, but Hawkins has instead opted to join former Wales pathway team-mates Oli Burrows, Dafydd Jenkins, Dan John and Christ Tshiunza at the Chiefs.
“I liked what they had to say about how they want to play and how they want to create a new team capable of challenging at the very top,” said Hawkins of his move to the English Premiership club.
“That really appealed to me, I wanted to be part of it, and I wanted to be there at the start of this journey.”
“It’s a new challenge for me and something a bit different, especially moving away from my home region, who I will always be thankful to for giving me the playing opportunities that I’ve had up until now.
“That said, it does feel a home away from home, especially with all the Welsh boys that are down there already.
“I’ve spoken to a few of them and they’ve told me plenty of good things about the club and the culture that exists down there. Also, chatting with Rob (Baxter, director of rugby) and Ali (Hepher, head coach).
https://twitter.com/PlanetRugby/status/1642885928912924672?s=20
Baxter welcomed the new arrival as he continues the process of refreshing his squad.
“We do have players moving on at the end of this season, so it was important that we looked at the areas we needed to fill and that we brought in the right players,” he said.
“Joe ticks pretty much every box that we look for in a player and I’ve no doubt he’s going to be a great addition to the squad. Like any player, we feel there are areas of his game that can be further developed, but he’s someone who we are genuinely excited about.”
Ospreys head coach Toby Booth admitted frustration at not being able to retain Hawkins, adding: “Obviously it is a disappointment to lose Joe, he is a player that we have spent a lot of time developing over the last two years.
“A big focus of what we are trying to do is to keep our young talented Welsh players but sometimes this is not possible.”
Another Welsh rugby player over the bridge to Exeter if Teddy Williams rumours are true..
Is that 10 for next season?
Teddy Williams
Joe Hawkins
Orson James
Iestyn Harris
Christ Tshiunza
Iwan Jenkins
Dafydd Jenkins
Oli Burrows
Dan John
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
(+16yo Luke Evans)— Legally Rugby (@LegallyRugby) April 3, 2023
